Circus of Anxiety attempts to widen the understanding around women's mental health, focusing specifically on the experience of anxiety. The title ‘Circus of Anxiety’ derives from the historical practice in which male doctors forced female patients displaying symptoms of hysteria to perform for an audience.
First hand research has been collected by interviewing medical professionals, mental health activists and women who suffer from anxiety. Drawings of what individuals imagine takes place within their own brain when they experience feelings of panic and anxiety have inspired costumes, set design and dance that aim to make the invisible thought process tangible. The element of performance is this time used in a positive way.
The aim is to create work that demands attention and commands people to take note and experience first-hand what these women endure. Mental health should be seen, spoken about and celebrated.
Circus of Anxiety from emily waters on Vimeo.
Directed, edited and designed by Emily Briselden-Waters
Composer Lisa J Burgess